'Big injury': Rangers stunned by another fitness blow as two players set for potential five-game absence

Finland internationalist Antman played 57 minutes of Sunday’s goalless draw with Falkirk before being replaced by Djeidi Gassama. And ahead of Wednesday’s Premiership match against Dundee United, Rohl revealed that the 24-year-old had a scan on the issue, which revealed a eight-week recovery time.

Antman’s fitness problem adds to an increasing injury list at Ibrox ahead of seven games in the space of 27 days. First-choice defenders John Souttar and Derek Cornelius plus forward Mikey Moore are on the sidelines, while midfielder Kieran Dowell and winger Rabbi Matondo are working their way back to full fitness. Striker Youssef Chermiti and midfielder Joe Rothwell, however, could return at Tannadice and defender Dujon Sterling will be in the squad for the first time since rupturing his Achilles in April.

Speaking on Antman’s injury, Rohl said: “Oli is out for a minimum of eight weeks. Big injury. In the past there was an injury with the muscle, his adductor. And now it's an odd one. I was a bit surprised because I didn't sub him about this. I subbed him because I wanted to bring on fresh legs.

“He felt something but he didn't feel it was so serious. Then he had his scan yesterday and we were very surprised that it's so big.”

Rohl was pleased to report better fitness news on three other players. “Youssef is in this morning,” he continued. “There will be a light session for him to see if he is available. Dujon will be in the squad tomorrow. I think Mikey [Moore] looks good. Not available this weekend or this week, but maybe in the short term is a good signal. I cannot promise too much, but he looks good. Joe, I think he will be back in the squad. He was only injured last week.”

Rohl will have to dig deep into his squad for the rest of December regardless of injuries. He expects defender Nasser Djiga and midfielder Mohamed Diomande to be called up by Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast respectively for the Africa Cup of Nations, which starts on December 20. The duo could miss games against Hearts, Motherwell, St Mirren, Celtic and Aberdeen, depending on how far their countries progress in the competition.

“Yes, I think we will lose them,” added Rohl on Wolves loanee Djiga and Diomande.” It's now the negotiation when. The cup starts around Christmas. We have some important games, but this is now part of the conversation. We try our best, but of course we have to prepare for this as well.”